Now is the time to get a flu vaccination. There are many opportunities in the community for flu vaccination including health care provider offices, pharmacies, and the Tompkins County Health Department. Everyone 6 months of age and over should be vaccinated every year against the flu.
Flu vaccination is the best protection against the flu – it protects you and limits the spread of flu to others. These include infants under the age of 6 months who are too young to be immunized and those who are immune compromised such as people receiving cancer treatment.
Tompkins County Health Department (TCHD) is providing flu vaccinations by appointment at its location at 55 Brown Road. Appointments are necessary and can be made by calling the Health Department at 607-274-6616.
Most health insurance plans cover the cost of an annual flu vaccination. At the Health Department, there are no out-of-pocket costs if you have one of the following health insurance plans: Blue Cross Blue Shield, Medicaid, Medicare Part B and a Medicare Managed Care Plan.
However, if you have a health insurance plan other than those listed above, you will have to pay the cost of the flu vaccination at the time of your appointment. The Health Department will provide a receipt that you may submit to your insurance for reimbursement.
The cost is $38. Cash and checks accepted; no credit or debit cards.
For more information call 607-274-6604 or go to www.tompkinscountyny.gov/health. Find the Health Department on Facebook @TompkinsPublicHealth and Twitter@TompkinsHealth.